As the clock ticks closer to the New Year, thoughts naturally turn to celebrations. What better way to mark the occasion than with a festive gathering featuring grilled oysters? These delectable bivalves are not just a crowd-pleaser—they’re the perfect centerpiece for a memorable party. Imagine the oohs and aahs when your guests discover these tender morsels paired with their choice of seasoned butter. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, a PGS Commercial grill ensures professional-quality results every time.

If you’ve ever tried shucking an oyster, you’ll know it’s quite an art form. It requires patience and skill to pry open those tough shells. But here’s the good news: grilling eliminates the need for shucking altogether. Our foolproof recipe allows the oysters to open naturally during cooking, leaving the flavorful juices intact. All you need to do is top them with your preferred seasoned butter—think garlic herb, Parmesan, or white wine butter—and let the flavors meld together. It’s as simple as it is delicious!

Choosing the Right Oysters

When it comes to grilling, size matters. Large oysters tend to fare better on the grill, offering more meat per bite. Depending on where they hail from, oysters can vary significantly in taste and texture. Atlantic oysters, such as Blue Points and Wellfleet, boast a brinier profile and larger shells, while Pacific oysters like Hama Hamas and Blue Pools are slightly smaller and sweeter. Knowing which variety suits your palate makes all the difference.

Preparing Your Oysters for the Grill

Freshness is key when selecting oysters. Ideally, you want to buy them the same day you plan to serve them. Avoid any with a strong fishy odor, as this could indicate spoilage. Rinse each oyster thoroughly under cold water with a stiff brush to remove any dirt or debris. Store them on ice in the fridge, covered with a damp tea towel—not plastic wrap—to maintain optimal freshness.

Before firing up the grill, prepare a sturdy platter by placing a layer of small beans, rice, or kosher salt on the base. This provides stability for the uneven shells. Preheat your PGS grill to medium-high heat for consistent cooking performance. Arrange the oysters, belly-side down, on a bed of salt on a baking sheet or directly on crumpled aluminum foil to keep them stable during cooking.

Once the grill is hot, use tongs to carefully place the oysters directly onto the grates. Close the lid and let them cook for about three minutes. By then, they should start to open slightly. Transfer them to a waiting tray and allow them to cool enough to handle before attempting to open them manually. Use an oyster knife to pry them open, aiming to preserve the precious liquor within. Discard any that remain stubbornly closed—they’re not fit for consumption.

Finally, garnish each oyster with your chosen seasoned butter and return them to the grill briefly to melt and bubble. Serve immediately alongside crusty bread to soak up every last drop of goodness.

Customizing Your Seasoned Butter

The secret weapon in this dish lies in the seasoned butter. While plain melted butter is always satisfying, adding aromatic herbs, spices, and zesty citrus tones takes the experience to another level. Mix all ingredients thoroughly and shape into rolls for easy slicing. Store in the fridge until ready to use. Don’t hesitate to experiment with combinations like basil-Parmesan or white wine butter to suit individual preferences.

Complementing Your Grilled Oysters

To balance out the richness of the oysters, consider serving them alongside lighter accompaniments such as a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. A basket of warm bread is essential for sopping up the luscious juices, while chilled white wine pairs beautifully with the dish. For those looking to elevate their spread further, potato wedges or a creamy pasta salad offer additional options without overwhelming the main attraction.

Why Choose the PGS Legacy T-Series?

For community settings like condos and apartment complexes, the PGS Legacy T-Series stands out as the ultimate grilling solution. Its robust design caters to daily use, making it ideal for communal areas. Features such as the one-hour timer and ergonomic lift-assist handle ensure convenience, while its versatility accommodates everything from simple burgers to gourmet creations like grilled oysters. Investing in quality equipment means more time spent enjoying the festivities rather than worrying about logistics.

Whether hosting an intimate dinner or a grand New Year’s bash, trust the PGS Legacy T-Series to deliver exceptional results. Here’s to a year full of joy, laughter, and great food!